SAN DIEGO — An AI-powered humanoid robot named RIA is training doctors to be better prepared for the future by pretending to have different ailments.
UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies brought her into the classroom, where she helps with role playing. RIA can be programmed to have all sorts of medical afflictions and, unlike actors pretending to be patients, she doesn't need a lunch break.
“RIA doesn't get judgmental,” said Jonathan Rezach, Program Manager for the English Language Institute. “She doesn't get tired. She doesn't check her smart phone so she's able to conduct these role plays continuously, effortlessly, over and over again.”
Specifically, RIA is helping these students from other countries work on their medical English skills.
“This is a chance for us to use the most cutting edge research in cognitive science and robotics to help working professionals improve their English Language skills,” said Patti Juza, Associate Dean for UC San Diego Extended Studies.
She says RIA speaks at least 16 different languages.
“Many of our healthcare providers are trying to learn Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese to be able to work with members of the San Diego community in their own language,” she said. “RIA will be instrumental for helping us to get there.”
Her technology allows her to have over 100 distinct expressions which makes her seem fairly lifelike, but students say there is room for improvement.
“She takes time,” said Sajin Kang, an international student from South Korea. “There's a delay after I talk until she understands so it's a little bit less realistic right now.”
RIA was created by a company out of India called Machani Robotics. They’re hoping one day their humanoid robots will assist people with daily tasks and activities.
WATCH RELATED: Creepy robots crash San Diego Padres practice at Petco Park